Internal mobility as a driver of change
03 February 2026 | Comment(s) |
Matthias Vauthier
In a rapidly changing job market, where skills evolve faster than organisational charts, internal mobility is becoming a strategic lever for companies. Much more than just a human resources tool, it is becoming a concrete response to the challenges of attracting, retaining and developing talent.
Michael Page's Talent Trends 2025 study reveals that 93% of Swiss employees are open to new opportunities, and 60% of them are actively listening to the market. Meanwhile, priorities have changed: flexibility, work-life balance and career development are now as important as the salary component. In this context, internal mobility is a strong signal of commitment to employees and a competitive advantage for companies that choose to make it a real option.
What exactly is internal mobility?
Internal mobility aims to align the needs of the organisation with those of its employees. It encompasses skills development, succession planning, talent identification and anticipating internal job changes. Its benefits are numerous:
- reduced recruitment costs and turnaround times in a context of skilled labour shortages;
- enhancement of internal expertise and a stronger corporate culture;
- increased commitment and agility thanks to real opportunities;
- meeting the expectations of the new generations in terms of work-life balance, development and learning.
A dynamic environment within Groupe Mutuel
At Groupe Mutuel, all types of mobility are supported whenever there is an organisational need. This may involve a change of job, profession, region or level of responsibility. In an open dialogue, employees are invited to take stock of their aspirations and skills. Curiosity, a desire to learn and initiative are at the heart of our culture of mobility: you don't have to be fully prepared, it's your potential that counts. Internally, access to open positions and job descriptions allows employees to plan for the future, and individual support (coaching, mentoring, training, assessment) helps employees to progress along this path.
Alizée Produit, Francine Besse and Mathieu Produit talk about their internal mobility pathways, which have been a real springboard for new opportunities:
What were the reasons behind your desire for mobility?
- Alizée Produit: "After working at Groupe Mutuel in the canton of Valais, I wanted to join our teams in Zurich. During this time, I was able to continue my professional activity while learning German. Since then, I have returned to Martigny, Valais, with many additional skills, particularly language skills, to continue my career there."
- Francine Besse: "I have worked in various positions, but have always wanted to diversify my activities. As a team manager and then quality manager, internal mobility allowed me to develop my skills in project management, leadership and organisation, enabling me to progress to the position of Senior Project Manager."
- Mathieu Produit: "I have always enjoyed learning, so internal mobility seemed like an opportunity to broaden my skills and move into various roles in different sectors. In this way, I can step outside my comfort zone to develop my professional knowledge and also grow on a personal level."
What steps did you take?
- Alizée Produit: "I expressed my desire to move to German-speaking Switzerland, which was very well received. My request was approved by my managers and I received a very warm welcome from my new team. I am grateful to have had this opportunity."
- Francine Besse: "I initiated a discussion with Human Resources, in particular during an interview focused on internal mobility. Afterwards, I was able to have my strengths and aspirations assessed. Presented as part of an internal recruitment process, my application was immediately supported by my line manager and senior management. My colleagues also played a role since they encouraged me in the process."
- Mathieu Produit: "I have always been able to discuss my career development aspirations with my various managers and the HR department in complete confidence and openness. I am grateful that Groupe Mutuel's corporate culture allows for such career opportunities."
